Former Arsenal fan favourite retires after 19-year career – as tributes from team-mates pour in

Former Arsenal fan favourite Carlos Vela has announced his retirement after a 19-year career. 

The Mexican forward came through Arsenal’s academy after joining from Guadalajara aged 16 and spent seven years at the Emirates, with a number of loan spells including at West Brom.

The 36-year-old has been without a club for six months since leaving Los Angeles FC (LAFC) but finally announced he would hang up his boots on Tuesday night.

He wrote on Instagram: ‘Throughout my career, I have experienced very special moments, but the time has come to officially retire from professional soccer. 

‘There are not enough words to express my gratitude to my family, all the clubs that gave me a chance, and the fans for their support and affection. 

‘Thank you, Carlos.

The Mexico star joined the Gunners in 2005 but had to wait until 2008 to make his full debut

Wenger said he could ‘be a world class striker’ after his hat-trick against Sheffield United

‘It has been an honor and a privilege to share my career with all of you.’

 His team-mates were quick to pay tribute, with former Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez commenting: ‘A true pleasure to have shared so many moments with you. I love you.’

Antoine Griezmann, who played with Vela at Real Sociedad, wrote: ‘I love you very much, Carlitos, thank you for your friendship.’

Mexico’s goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa added: ‘An honor to share the field with you, always a legend! You’ll be missed on the pitch.’

While Vela joined Arsenal in 2005, supporters would have to wait three years to see him in action after he was sent to Spain on loan to acquire a work permit. 

He scored a hat-trick on his full debut in a 6-0 win over Sheffield United in 2008 and was touted to ‘quickly be a world class striker’ by Arsene Wenger.

Gunners fans took to the Mexican because of his flair and exciting playing style but he only made three starts in the following three years.

Javier Hernandez said: ‘A true pleasure to have shared so many moments with you. I love you’

Gunners fans took to the Mexican forward because of his flair and exciting playing style

Vela was LAFC’s first signing in 2018 and scored 93 times in 189 games for the American side

He was loaned to West Brom in winter window in the 2010/11 season, going on to score twice in eight league games. 

Vela moved permanently to Real Sociedad in 2012, where he remained for six seasons.  

He was LAFC’s first signing in 2018 and went on to net 93 times, providing 53 assists, in 189 matches for the American side. 

The Mexican holds the record for the most goals in a single MLS season and will remain as an ambassador for LAFC.